Mercedes

Mercedes is 46 years old and lives with Melanio, who is 48 years of age. They have four children, two of whom are already grown and living in their own homes, and two who are still of school age.

Mercedes began working as a trader in the street, like her mother before her, and over time saved enough money to have a place in the market in the city of Ita, where she can sell fruit and vegetables from Monday to Sunday. The business has been quite profitable, so her husband and she decided to open a small grocery store in their home. After much sacrifice, they finally have two businesses.

They have been receiving loans from Fundacion Paraguay since 2005, and their enterprises are progressing quite well. This time they are applying for a loan to purchase fruits, vegetables, cassava, oil, and other goods to make their businesses even better.

Additional Information

About Fundación Paraguaya

Fundación Paraguaya is a financially self-sustaining social enterprise that promotes entrepreneurship in urban and rural areas through microfinance, education programs, and more. Its focus on agriculture has helped many farmers boost their crop yields. And a number of other borrowers have taken out loans to start and grow social businesses that have helped deliver eyeglasses, medicines and other helpful services in their local communities.